Funmilayo Déri is a Nigerian born, London/Budapest based fashion designer. She developed a passion for fashion from a very early age and was always surrounded by creativity, designing and making garments with her mother as a hobby. Her grandmother was also a designer.

From earning a degree in International Business and working as a manager at a private bank in Switzerland, she decided in 2009 to make a career of her love for fashion. She went on to study at the renowned Istituto Marangoni in London, after which she chose to combine her passions for fashion and business. In March 2011 she launched her eponymous label Funlayo Déri. Her collections have been presented at Africa Fashion Week New York, Vauxhall Fashion Scout and Arise Magazine Fashion Week.

Funmilayo’s design aesthetic is influenced by her mixed cultural experiences and exposure and is a manifestation of her eclectic background. She believes that clothes should be glamorous and elegant but not overly serious, and so her designs exude glamour and elegance, but are yet modern and stylish in an unconventional, striking way. She also believes that clothes should always be created with exquisite fabrics, fine craftsmanship and great attention to detail. These elements are reflected in her collections.

Autumn/Winter 2013 collection inspiration:

This collection was inspired by a trip to Rio de Janeiro – the rich elements of nature, the rainforest and botanical gardens, the vibrancy of the city. Bright colours and embroidered fabrics are used to lighten an brighten the gloomy winter days/nights. Fabrics used include wool and silk crepes, leather, silk organza,mohair and lace.